Headphones are ideal for enjoying your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks, but sometimes the outside world can bleed through. If you want to avoid distracting noise, consider using headphones or earphones with active noise cancellation (ANC). We've been testing noise-cancelling headphones for around 17 years, so you can trust that our analysis is comprehensive and informed. Our coverage is, and has always been, free of manufacturer influence. The Sony WH-1000XM6, Bose's second-generation QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, and Apple's AirPods Pro 3 are our top picks. At the more affordable end, the EarFun Air Pro 4+ earphones outpace everything else around $100. It's still worth clicking through to our detailed reviews of each model to find the one that best suits your needs, since they all have particular strengths. We also cover everything you need to know during your search below.
Overview
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![Apple AirPods Pro 3]()
Best Noise-Cancelling Earphones OverallApple AirPods Pro 3
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![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)]()
Best Cross-Platform Noise CancellationBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
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![Sony WH-1000XM6]()
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones OverallSony WH-1000XM6
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![Apple AirPods Max 2]()
Best Headphones for iPhone UsersApple AirPods Max 2
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![EarFun Air Pro 4+]()
Best Affordable Noise CancellationEarFun Air Pro 4+
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![Urbanista Los Angeles]()
Best Battery LifeUrbanista Los Angeles
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![Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation]()
Best Open-Ear Earphones With ANCApple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation
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![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)]()
Best Bose HeadphonesBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
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![Sony WF-1000XM6]()
Best Earphones for AudiophilesSony WF-1000XM6
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![Marshall Monitor III ANC]()
Most Stylish HeadphonesMarshall Monitor III ANC
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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Credit: Eric Zeman
![Apple AirPods Pro 3]()
Best Noise-Cancelling Earphones OverallApple AirPods Pro 3
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The third-generation AirPods Pro deliver top-quality noise cancellation, wiping out deep, low-frequency rumble and more complex, higher-frequency sounds. Beyond the improved ANC, Apple's Adaptive Audio mode gives you a more natural way to monitor your surroundings without letting loud noises harm your hearing. Their audio is still rich but more balanced than before, providing a first-class listening experience. In addition, they include advanced features such as live translation, heart rate monitoring, workout tracking, and a range of hearing health tools—all for the same price as the previous model.
Who It’s For
Apple lovers: First and foremost, if you want seamless integration between your earphones and iPhone or Mac, you will enjoy the AirPods Pro experience. Pairing is as simple as opening the case, while the iOS settings menu provides all the necessary controls and features.
Fitness enthusiasts: These earbuds can also serve as active, transparent earplugs and a fitness-tracking tool that doesn't require a smartwatch, thanks to their built-in heart rate monitoring sensors.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 8 hours for earbuds, and 24 hours with case Charging Support Lightning, MagSafe, Qi Wireless, USB-C Chip H3 headphone chip; U2 chip for case Connection Type Bluetooth Hands-Free Siri In-Canal Seal On-Ear Controls Volume swipes; press and press-and-hold gestures (ANC/Transparency selection, calls, playback, Siri, track navigation) Spatial Audio Personalized Spatial audio with Head tracking Transparency Mode Standard and Apdative Transparency True Wireless Type In-Canal Water Resistance IP57 Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Apple AirPods Pro 3 Review -
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![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)]()
Best Cross-Platform Noise CancellationBose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) utilize a combination of calibration tests and subtle adaptive noise-cancelling adjustments to achieve impressive results. This revised model is more effective against both low and high frequencies, and still delivers some of the best active noise cancellation available from earbuds, comparable to the AirPods Pro 3. The earbuds also offer an Active Aware mode that tamps down louder environmental noises while still allowing you to hear your surroundings. Support for the AptX Adaptive codec adds value, as does the new charging case, which can now charge wirelessly.
Who It’s For
Cross-platform listeners: You should choose the second-generation QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds if you want the most effective noise cancellation on a mix of platforms (Android, Windows, and Apple products).
The situationally aware: Most transparency modes on noise-cancelling earbuds sound artificial and artifact-filled, meaning you only want to use them occasionally and briefly. Bose manages to keep ambient sounds natural even though they're being reproduced, which is ideal if you need to keep tabs on your surroundings or order a latte.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Canal Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless -
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![Sony WH-1000XM6]()
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones OverallSony WH-1000XM6
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Sony's latest over-ear headphones now lead the pack in multiple features. They effectively cancel noise, produce excellent audio, and are more comfortable than their predecessors. Moreover, they play high-res audio thanks to LDAC codec support and can charge via USB-C while you listen. This makes the WH-1000XM6 our top pick for audiophiles.
Who It’s For
Noise cancellation maximalists: Sony has noise cancellation down to a fine art, slightly besting even Bose, so if it's your top priority, look no further.
Android audiophiles: If you use an Android phone, Sony's support for the high-end LDAC codec can help you take full advantage of high-res streaming services.
Knob turners: If you like to change how your headphones sound, Sony's companion app (with its adjustable EQ) offers more flexibility than most.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Type Circumaural (over-ear) Wireless Learn More Sony WH-1000XM6 Review -
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![Apple AirPods Max 2]()
Best Headphones for iPhone UsersApple AirPods Max 2
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
If you want to stay in the Apple ecosystem and prefer proper headphones, the AirPods Max 2 are a striking (but expensive) option. They offer excellent noise cancellation that is better than the latest from Bose and Sony models, and they look more stylish than most of the competition.
Who It’s For
Spatial audio fans: The primary advantage of these headphones is their seamless integration with Apple devices and services. And, in addition to excellent audio and noise cancellation performance, you get the best spatial audio support on the market.
Design lovers: The AirPods Max are instantly recognizable thanks to their premium materials and unusual headband design. The Digital Crown is one of the best controls available on any set of headphones, anywhere.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Wireless Learn More Apple AirPods Max 2 Review -
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Credit: EarFun
![EarFun Air Pro 4+]()
Best Affordable Noise CancellationEarFun Air Pro 4+
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The EarFun Air Pro 4+ true wireless earphones offer clean, detailed audio, effective noise cancellation, and top-notch connectivity. They have long battery life and are reasonably priced.
Who It's For
Bargain hunters: If you only want to spend around $100 on noise-cancelling earbuds, EarFun delivers. These earbuds offer impressive sound quality and battery life, intuitive controls, and an adjustable equalizer.
Gym bunnies: The earbuds feature an IP54 rating, ensuring they can withstand sweaty sessions on the treadmill or in the weight room. Given their low price, if you accidentally drop a dumbbell on them, it won't ruin your day entirely.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Ear Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More EarFun Air Pro 4+ Review -
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![Urbanista Los Angeles]()
Best Battery LifeUrbanista Los Angeles
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
What’s not to love about headphones that recharge via all sources of light, from the sun to an ordinary light bulb? The Urbanista Los Angeles headphones are one of the most unique picks on this list. In addition to their admirable eco-friendly solar charging technology, they effectively cancel noise and reveal plenty of details in your music.
Who It’s For
Eco-conscious listeners: This Urbanista is an obvious choice for anyone who wants to use less energy or spend less time charging their headphones (the company claims they should last around 80 hours on a full charge, which is impressive). You do get a USB-C port for charging, but you likely won't need it often.
Frequent travelers: Since they rarely need charging, you won't need to pack a charger for these headphones, even if you're going away for an extended period. They'll survive even the longest flight, and if you need to recharge them for another, you can prop them against a hotel window for an afternoon.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth Type Circumaural (over-ear) Wireless Learn More Urbanista Los Angeles Review -
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Credit: Tim Gideon
![Apple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation]()
Best Open-Ear Earphones With ANCApple AirPods 4 With Active Noise Cancellation
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Open earbuds don't fully seal off the ear canal, which can make achieving active noise cancellation difficult. However, these new AirPods are among the first open earbuds to offer noise cancellation, and they do an excellent job at blocking out unwanted noise. Additionally, they deliver rich sound, advanced adaptive audio features, and tight iPhone integration.
Who It's For
Open-ear design fans: These earbuds are ideal for anyone who wants an open-ear design but also requires decent noise-cancelling capabilities.
Apple users on a budget: These earbuds offer the same seamless integration with Apple products as other AirPods, but cost $70 less than the AirPods Pro 3.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Battery Life Up to 4 hours with ANC Charging Support USB-C, MagSafe, Qi Wireless Chip H2 headphone chip Connection Type Bluetooth Hands-Free Siri On-Ear Controls Volume swipes; press and press-and-hold gestures (ANC/Transparency selection, calls, playback, Siri, track navigation) Spatial Audio Personalized Spatial audio with Head tracking Transparency Mode Standard and Apdative Transparency True Wireless Type Open-style earbuds Water Resistance IP54 for both earbuds and case Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless -
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Credit: Christian de Looper
![Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)]()
Best Bose HeadphonesBose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The second-generation Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones deliver some of the most consistently excellent noise cancellation available, effectively reducing complex mids and highs while mitigating the lows. AptX Adaptive support, immersive (spatial) audio modes, and multipoint connectivity make the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones competitive in other aspects, too. We also appreciate the improved audio quality, extended battery life, and advanced wired playback options.
Who It’s For
Audiophiles who prefer wired listening: The updated version of the QuietComfort Ultra Headphones supports lossless audio over USB-C, which isn't something you see on a lot of Bluetooth headphones.
Bose loyalists: We think Sony has a slight edge these days when it comes to noise-cancelling abilities, but anyone looking for the best noise-cancelling headphones from Bose won't be disappointed with these.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type Stereo 3.5mm Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Wireless -
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Credit: Christian de Looper
![Sony WF-1000XM6]()
Best Earphones for AudiophilesSony WF-1000XM6
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Sony's WF-1000XM6 earphones aren't quite as effective overall at blocking out distractions as the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Gen 2, but their foam eartips help them perform better against high frequencies. Otherwise, they sound excellent, work with an app that offers an adjustable EQ, support the audiophile-friendly LDAC Bluetooth codec, and feature exceptional mics.
Who It’s For
Those seeking the best of both worlds: If you value noise cancellation and audio performance equally, these are the earphones to buy. They're a particularly strong option for Android users who can take advantage of the LDAC codec's higher-resolution audio.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth True Wireless Type In-Ear Water/Sweat-Resistant Wireless Learn More Sony WF-1000XM6 Review -
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![Marshall Monitor III ANC]()
Most Stylish HeadphonesMarshall Monitor III ANC
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Marshall Monitor III ANC over-ear headphones are worth considering, if only for their stylish design. They sport Marshall's analog aesthetic, but they do much more: They also deliver excellent audio performance and provide effective active noise cancellation.
Who It’s For
Guitarists: Marshall's amplifiers are iconic, and the company is working really hard to make its headphones and speakers similarly legendary. If you love Marshall's legacy and design language, these headphones are an excellent way to display your enthusiasm, and they sound superb, too.
Futureproofers: The headphones also offer support for Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast, ensuring they will remain usable for years to come.
Heavy listeners: Incredibly, the Marshall Monitor III ANC headphones offer up to 70 hours of playtime with active noise cancellation enabled.
Specs & Configurations
Active Noise Cancellation Connection Type Bluetooth Connection Type USB-C Type Circumaural (over-ear) Wireless Learn More Marshall Monitor III ANC Review -
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Best For | Best Noise-Cancelling Earphones Overall | Best Cross-Platform Noise Cancellation | Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Overall | Best Headphones for iPhone Users | Best Affordable Noise Cancellation | Best Battery Life | Best Open-Ear Earphones With ANC | Best Bose Headphones | Best Earphones for Audiophiles | Most Stylish Headphones | Best Noise-Cancelling Earphones Overall | Best Cross-Platform Noise Cancellation | Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones Overall |
Type | In-Canal | In-Canal | Circumaural (over-ear) | Circumaural (over-ear) | In-Ear | Circumaural (over-ear) | Open-style earbuds | Circumaural (over-ear) | In-Ear | Circumaural (over-ear) | In-Canal | In-Canal | Circumaural (over-ear) |
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Connection Type | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm | Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm, USB-C | Bluetooth | Bluetooth, USB-C | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Stereo 3.5mm |
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Buying Guide: The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for 2026
What's the Difference Between Active Noise Cancellation and Passive Noise Isolation?
Plenty of headphones and earphones claim to isolate or reduce noise, but that doesn't mean they offer proper ANC.
Passive noise isolation, sometimes referred to as passive noise cancellation, is a technical term for what earplugs do. Simply, when an object (such as a thick earpad with memory foam) blocks sound, it passively (without any battery power) reduces the ambient noise you hear. Putting your fingers in your ears when a loud siren goes by is a form of passive noise isolation.
Active noise cancellation is much more complicated. It involves microphones that actively sample the noise in an environment. A chip inverts the sound wave in real time, and then the speaker drivers in the earcups produce the inverted wave that cancels out those sounds. Think of it like this: If you have a perfect sine wave and play it along with its inverse wave—the mirror opposite—the result would be no wave at all. It works in theory on a graph, but the results are messier in real life. Regardless, modern ANC implementations are quite effective at (nearly) eliminating low and midrange frequencies. This all requires battery power to work, of course.
Nearly all ANC headphones and earphones use some degree of passive noise isolation in addition to their active circuitry, primarily because it's an easy way to improve performance against high-frequency noises, which tend to give headphones more trouble.
What Noise Cancellation Can and Can't Do
If you haven't used noise-cancelling headphones before, it's essential to understand that they don't completely eliminate noise and are notably less effective at reducing inconsistent noise. It's not like going into a soundproof chamber every time you put them on—it's more like using highly effective earplugs.
What does this mean in practice? Most headphones and earphones worth their price can effectively dampen the low, consistent rumble of an airplane or a train. The same applies to the ongoing hum of a loud AC unit or fan. That's because these are consistent, relatively unchanging noises. However, noise such as music, conversation, or dogs barking—anything more complex than a constant drone—is usually more problematic. The best noise-cancelling models eliminate these sounds to a degree, but you'll still hear some of them.
What Is Adaptive Noise Cancellation?
Adaptive noise cancellation refers to active noise cancellation that adjusts to environmental sounds measured in real time by microphones. Technically, all ANC must be adaptive to a degree or it wouldn’t work—after all, as the sound around you changes, so too must the ANC’s inverse response. However, the term adaptive ANC refers to models that adjust to changes in surrounding noise and shifts in your head’s position. Apple's Adaptive Audio mode is one of the best we've tested, and it can help protect your hearing.
With numerous adaptive models, you can quite literally hear the noise cancellation changing in real-time when you turn your head slightly, or even feel pressure changes in your ear canal. For some users, adaptive ANC represents a crucial advancement, and to others, it’s distracting. As such, some apps now allow you to switch between adaptive and manual ANC modes. You might even be able to set the ANC to focus on a specific frequency range or use a fader to change its overall intensity.
What Is Hybrid Noise Cancellation?
Hybrid ANC combines feed-forward (exterior mic-based) and feedback (interior mic-based) noise cancellation technology. While many of the most effective (and expensive) models use hybrid technology, that feature doesn't guarantee top-notch performance. Even within hybrid ANC implementations, the number of mics and their placement (to highlight only two of many factors) can tremendously impact the system's effectiveness. Hybrid ANC implementations are present on both in-ear and over-ear models.
Should Noise Cancellation Add Hiss?
Some noise cancellation modes add an audible hiss—think white noise—to the signal. It doesn't sound awful, but it masks the high frequencies that the circuitry is less effective at eliminating. As mentioned, active noise cancellation works significantly better against lows and mids than against highs, so passively reducing some high-frequency noise is also essential. The hiss adds another layer that can enhance the sense of quiet you get, but it is actually somewhat deceiving.
You can determine if a hiss is present by enabling the ANC mode in a quiet room. If it's there, the hiss will have the opposite effect of noise cancellation in this scenario—it will sound louder than the room itself. Most hiss is not a deal breaker, and it (hopefully) won't even be audible when your music is playing. But generally speaking, the better the noise cancellation mode, the less it relies on a masking hiss.
We should also note that some people experience pressure in their ears with powerful ANC, while others don't notice any difference. It's worth trying on multiple pairs of headphones in a store before investing in an expensive product that may cause discomfort.
Should You Get Noise-Cancelling Headphones or Earphones?
Over-ear (circumaural) headphones typically offer the most effective ANC. Their earcups can create a tight seal, and the earpads act as an additional barrier. That said, the less-common on-ear ANC models can still eliminate plenty of surrounding noise, are often far more comfortable, and stow away more easily.
ANC-capable earphones have also seen significant improvements in recent years. The most significant advantage of these models is their passive isolation; their eartips seal off your ear canal, effectively eliminating high frequencies even before you enable the ANC.
The advantages one style may present over another are less about ANC performance at this point and more about your preference and comfort. You can find class-leading active noise cancellation in each category.
How Do Noise Cancellation Apps Work?
Many noise-cancelling headphones are compatible with free apps that can enhance the experience to better suit your environment. Most ANC models feature an ambient mode that allows you to hear your surroundings and talk with someone nearby without removing your headphones. The latter is a useful, nearly ubiquitous feature, but some manufacturers take it a step further and let you blend ANC and ambient levels to your preference. When this is available, you can usually adjust the levels with a slider in a companion app.
Is It Worth Buying Noise-Cancelling Headphones?
Noise cancellation circuitry isn't cheap. If a model has been around for more than a year or two, you might find some deals, but a quality pair of headphones rarely sells for less than $150. If they do, the ANC on offer is probably acceptable for the price, but not on par with the top-tier options. If you're looking for the best, prepare to pay between $350 and $500. Earphones are the exception, and you can get good performance for less than $200.
Whether it's worth spending that much depends on your typical listening environment. If you struggle to focus in the presence of noisy people, pets, or machines, then noise-cancelling headphones are absolutely worth the sense of quiet they can provide.
However, if noise cancellation isn't a major concern for you, focus on other key characteristics by exploring our lists of the best wireless headphones, the best earphones, and the best headphones overall. If you're on a tight budget, consider the best headphones available for under $50.